Dr. Michael Charles Nimmo – Pathologist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Michael Nimmo is a highly skilled General Pathologist, specializing in the laboratory diagnosis of disease. Working within the laboratory at a major hospital or diagnostic laboratory in Vancouver, BC, he collaborates closely with clinicians across various specialties. The laboratory where Dr. Nimmo works is equipped with advanced diagnostic technology to ensure accurate and timely results, supporting clinical decision-making across various medical disciplines. He plays a crucial role in patient care by examining tissues, cells, and body fluids to identify abnormalities, determine the nature and extent of diseases such as cancer, infections, and inflammatory conditions. The diagnostic insights provided by Dr. Nimmo are essential for guiding clinical management and treatment strategies by other physicians.

He holds a medical degree from the University of British Columbia (1995) and is certified as a General Pathologist by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His training and certification ensure that he maintains the highest standards of diagnostic expertise, adhering to rigorous professional and ethical guidelines.

Dr. Nimmo’s professional philosophy emphasizes a commitment to diagnostic accuracy and precision, utilizing the latest laboratory techniques and technologies. He values effective collaboration and communication with clinical colleagues to ensure optimal patient management. Upholding the highest standards of laboratory quality assurance and patient safety is central to his practice. Additionally, he contributes to medical knowledge through ongoing research and education, supporting the advancement of diagnostic pathology in Vancouver. He provides diagnostic expertise and reporting in English, ensuring clear and comprehensive communication with referring physicians.

Dr. Nimmo provides a comprehensive range of diagnostic pathology services. For specific inquiries about test availability or consultative services, referring physicians should contact the laboratory directly.

Note: This list outlines key diagnostic areas. Pathology services support a wide spectrum of medical investigations. Detailed reports are provided to referring physicians for clinical correlation.

All pathology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant Canadian Association of Pathologists (CAP-ACP) and relevant subspecialty guidelines. Reports and consultations are directed to referring physicians.

The diagnostic laboratory or hospital pathology department where Dr. Nimmo works is located in Vancouver’s Fairview neighborhood. It is situated close to Oakridge Centre (currently redeveloping), with excellent accessibility via TransLink services including SkyTrain (Expo, Millennium, Canada Lines), buses, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). The facility meets all accessibility standards and is typically part of a larger hospital or medical center complex. The laboratory offers a state-of-the-art diagnostic environment, equipped with advanced technology to support accurate and efficient testing. For specimen drop-off or specific inquiries, referring physicians are advised to contact the laboratory’s main office or their respective clinic representatives. Access to the laboratory for patients or specimens is managed through the referring physician’s office or the laboratory’s designated contact point, ensuring smooth and secure specimen handling.

How are the findings from a Pathologist like Dr. Nimmo used by other doctors?

Pathology reports from specialists like Dr. Nimmo are critical tools for treating physicians. They contain detailed descriptions of microscopic findings and a definitive diagnosis. This information allows other doctors to understand the exact nature of a patient's illness, plan surgeries, choose medications, monitor disease progression, and assess the effectiveness of treatments. The accuracy of Dr. Nimmo's diagnostic work is therefore paramount for optimal patient outcomes.

What kinds of samples does a Pathologist like Dr. Nimmo examine?

Dr. Nimmo, in his role as a General Pathologist involved in the medical specialty concerned with the diagnosis of disease based on the laboratory analysis of bodily fluids such as blood and urine, as well as tissues, analyzes many types of patient specimens. This can range from tiny needle biopsies taken to investigate a suspicious lump, to cells scraped or brushed from surfaces (cytology), to complex surgical specimens removed to treat cancer. He also interprets blood and bone marrow samples for hematological conditions. The specific types of samples depend on the clinical question being asked and the suspected disease.

Will I meet Dr. Nimmo directly as a patient?

While Pathologists like Dr. Nimmo play a critical role in patient care, they primarily work behind the scenes in the laboratory, analyzing patient samples and consulting with other physicians. It's generally uncommon for patients to meet their pathologist directly, unless the pathologist has a subspecialty that involves some direct patient procedures (e.g., some hematopathologists performing bone marrow biopsies, though this is often done by hematologists/oncologists). Your primary interaction will be with your treating physician who orders the tests and discusses Dr. Nimmo's findings with you.

How long does it usually take to get pathology results from Dr. Nimmo's lab?

The turnaround time for pathology results can vary depending on several factors, including the type and complexity of the specimen, the number of specialized tests required (e.g., immunohistochemistry, molecular studies), and the overall lab workload. Simple biopsies might have results in a few days, while more complex cases or those needing extensive ancillary testing might take a week or longer. Your treating physician, who ordered the tests and receives the report from Dr. Nimmo, is the best person to provide an estimated timeframe for your specific results.

How is accuracy ensured in pathology diagnoses made by Dr. Nimmo?

Accuracy is paramount in pathology. Dr. Nimmo and his laboratory adhere to stringent quality control and quality assurance protocols. This includes standardized specimen handling and processing, use of calibrated equipment, participation in proficiency testing programs, internal case reviews, and consultations with colleagues on complex cases. Pathologists like Dr. Nimmo undergo extensive training and continuous medical education to maintain their diagnostic expertise and stay updated on the latest medical knowledge and diagnostic criteria.

Rm. 135C-910 10th Ave W, Pathology, Vancouver General Hospital
Vancouver, BC V5Z 4E3

Laboratory Phone: (604) 875-4111

The laboratory facility meets accessibility standards and is typically part of a larger hospital or medical center complex.

Dr. Nimmo is a licensed General Pathologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Pathology services by Dr. Nimmo are accessed via referrals for specimen analysis from primary care physicians or other specialists. Results and reports are communicated back to the referring doctor.

Verify Dr. Nimmo's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/312245/Nimmo%2CMichael